A sun-drenched backyard in San Jose’s Rose Garden district transformed into a vibrant stage for music and remembrance this past weekend. Around 200 guests gathered at the home of Dan Gordon, co-founder of Gordon Biersch, for a lively evening hosted to support San Jose Jazz. The event not only served as a prelude to the upcoming Summer Fest but also paid tribute to Henry Schiro, a pivotal figure in shaping the city's jazz legacy. With smooth tunes filling the air and stories echoing from the past, the gathering became a celebration of artistry and community spirit.

Schiro’s influence on the local jazz scene was profound. As former executive director of the San Jose Jazz Society, he elevated the festival to new heights by securing major sponsorships and ensuring its reputation as the largest free jazz event in the region. His meticulous attention to detail, even tracking weather patterns for optimal beer sales, reflected his deep understanding of both music and audience engagement. Decades after his departure and years following his passing, the event offered a moment of reconciliation and appreciation, with heartfelt reflections shared by his stepson, Councilmember Michael Mulcahy, and daughter Stephanie Schiro Ronco.

Beyond jazz, the weekend also brought unexpected encounters and joyful activities across the city. In New York, TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s artistic director Giovanna Sardelli found herself in a serendipitous meeting with Cher during the Tribeca Film Festival. Meanwhile, San Jose welcomed an energetic event for older adults at Lake Cunningham Park—a Color Walk promising fun, fitness, and a splash of color. Organized by the city’s Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services department, the fair combined wellness with community connection, offering resources tailored to those aged 50 and above.

From soulful melodies to spontaneous moments and inclusive celebrations, these events reflect the rich cultural fabric of San Jose. They remind us that honoring the past can inspire the future, and that joy often comes in many colors, notes, and reunions.